Finding the Most Effective Acid Reflux Remedy Over the Counter

Finding the Most Effective Acid Reflux Remedy Over the Counter

You know the signs. That familiar burning and the acidic taste in your mouth. Acid reflux can be a painful, albeit mostly harmless, condition and relief may be slow to come if you don’t know the acid reflux remedy that works the best for you. While there are some options in an acid reflux natural remedy, there are also options in acid reflux remedies that can be found as close as your local pharmacy. For the best advice in finding the most effective acid reflux remedy for you, read on for some of the best over the counter treatments available today.

Antacids
The most common type of acid reflux remedy that can be purchased over the counter is antacids. These come under commercial names like Tums and Rolaids, which also contain calcium to make them a healthy choice in heartburn treatment as well. Antacids work by neutralizing stomach acid. The advantage of antacids is that they usually go to work right away and bring some relief fairly quickly. The disadvantage is that this medication tends to be short-lived, so the burning and discomfort may return within a few hours.

H2 Blockers
H2 receptor blockers go by commercial names like Tagamet, Zantac and Pepcid. Unlike antacids that simply neutralize stomach acid, this type of acid reflux remedy will reduce the production of acid. The advantage is that the relief brought on by these medications will last quite a bit longer than antacids. The disadvantage is that it takes longer for these medications to take effect, which is why most recommend that they are taken prior to a meal that may cause heartburn. In some cases, a combination of antacids and H2 blockers are the ultimate acid reflux remedy, because they can go to work quickly and last longer when the two medications are taken together.

Proton Pump Inhibitors
Proton pump inhibitors like Prilosec used to be available only by prescription, but now you can purchase this acid reflux remedy over the counter. This medication works by blocking acid production, offering greater relief for a longer period of time. The other advantage to this type of acid reflux remedy is that it can provide time for the esophageal lining to heal if the area has been damaged by frequent bouts of heartburn. Because of this, proton pump inhibitors are often recommended for frequent episodes of heartburn or severe cases where damage has been diagnosed or is suspected.

Heartburn can be a painful condition, especially when it occurs frequently enough to be classified as acid reflux disease. The good news is that there are many good choices in an acid reflux remedy to keep painful symptoms at bay.